988 Suicide Prevention Lifeline: How One Call Can Save a Life

In July 2022, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline became the new three-digit number in the U.S. for anyone in emotional distress or suicidal crisis. But how does it actually work—and why does calling matter?

In this special episode, Dr. John Draper, Director of the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, joins Terri and Dr. Anita to explain what happens when you dial 988, how trained crisis counselors support callers, and why most people who experience suicidal thoughts survive—and go on to live meaningful lives.

Through research, lived experience, and compassionate insight, listeners will learn why 988 is more than a hotline—it’s a pathway to hope, healing, and connection.

Primary Topics Covered

• The launch of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
• Why an easy-to-remember number matters during crisis
• How hotlines reduce distress—even for non-suicidal callers
• The neuroscience of crisis: why feeling heard restores calm
• Real statistics on suicide attempts, survival, and recovery
• The five key steps in suicide prevention: Ask, Keep Safe, Be There, Connect, Follow Up
• Why caring connections—not shame—are the strongest prevention tool
• How 988 offers hope, empathy, and life-saving support

Timestamps

00:00 - Introduction and welcome
 01:10 - What is 988 and why it matters
 01:44 - The challenge of remembering the old 11-digit number
 02:16 - Concerns about overwhelming the system with demand
 03:02 - Research proving the life-saving impact of crisis hotlines
 03:36 - Interview with Dr. John Draper, Director of the Lifeline
 04:15 - Why calls are increasing and why that’s a good thing
 04:54 - Most callers are not suicidal: why anyone in distress should call
 06:17 - How crisis calls reduce distress and restore calm
 06:33 - The brain in crisis: fight, flight, freeze vs. empathy and connection
 07:55 - The lasting impact of hotline calls weeks later
 09:16 - What to expect if you call 988: questions and safety planning
 10:42 - Why counselors won’t judge—and what survival statistics show
 12:20 - Regret after suicide attempts and why life is worth living
 13:29 - How survivors describe finding hope and meaning after crisis
 14:56 - The five steps of suicide prevention explained
 16:13 - The power of connection: why being there matters most
 16:53 - Bringing others in: support networks and follow-up
 17:37 - Why 988 should become as natural as 911
 18:59 - Calling for yourself—or alongside someone you love
 19:22 - Closing reflections and resources

Explore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.com
Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/
Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/